Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A control system with a smart phone for a vehicle, the control system comprising an Engine Control Unit (ECU) positioned in the vehicle, and the smart phone comprising a Near Field Communication (NFC) antenna, an NFC tag, a signal-receive unit and a signal-send unit, the NFC tag contains identification information comprising at least one of an identification number or encryption information; the NFC tag is configured to communicate with the NFC antenna; the NFC antenna is configured to communicate with the signal-receive unit and the signal-send unit; and the control system is configured to execute a first series of steps: the ECU sends a challenge to the smart phone; the smart phone receives the signal via the signal-receive unit; the signal-receive unit relays the challenge to the NFC antenna; the NFC antenna relays the challenge to the NFC tag; the NFC tag sends a response corresponding to the challenge to the NFC antenna; the NFC antenna forwards the response to the signal-send unit; the signal-send unit forwards the response via the smart phone to the ECU, the ECU being configured to control the vehicle upon receiving the response to the challenge from the smart phone.
Vehicle control systems and smartphone integration. This invention addresses secure vehicle control by enabling a smartphone to interact with the vehicle's Engine Control Unit (ECU) using Near Field Communication (NFC). The system includes an ECU within the vehicle and a smartphone equipped with an NFC antenna, an NFC tag, a signal-receive unit, and a signal-send unit. The NFC tag stores unique identification information, such as an identification number or encryption details, and communicates with the NFC antenna. The NFC antenna, in turn, interfaces with the smartphone's signal-receive and signal-send units. The control system operates by the ECU initiating a challenge signal. This signal is received by the smartphone, relayed through its signal-receive unit to the NFC antenna, and then to the NFC tag. The NFC tag generates a response based on the challenge and its stored information, sending it back through the NFC antenna. The response is then transmitted via the signal-send unit and the smartphone back to the ECU. The ECU is configured to control the vehicle only after successfully receiving and verifying this response from the smartphone.
2. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the ECU comprises a transceiver module to communicate with the smart phone.
A control system for managing vehicle functions includes an electronic control unit (ECU) that interfaces with a smartphone to enable remote monitoring and control of vehicle operations. The ECU is equipped with a transceiver module, allowing wireless communication with the smartphone via a network connection. This enables the smartphone to send commands to the ECU, such as adjusting vehicle settings, retrieving diagnostic data, or triggering specific functions like locking doors or starting the engine. The system also includes sensors and actuators connected to the ECU to execute these commands and provide real-time feedback to the smartphone. The transceiver module supports bidirectional communication, ensuring seamless data exchange between the smartphone and the vehicle's control system. This setup enhances user convenience by allowing remote access to vehicle functions, improving security through remote monitoring, and enabling predictive maintenance by analyzing diagnostic data. The system is particularly useful for modern vehicles where smartphone integration is becoming a standard feature for enhanced connectivity and automation.
3. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the control system further comprises an NFC base positioned on the vehicle to communicate with the ECU, and the control system is further configured to execute a second series of steps if the smart phone is inoperative and the control system is unable to execute the first series of steps, wherein the second series of steps comprises: the ECU sends a challenge to the NFC base; the NFC base relays the challenge to the NFC antenna; the NFC antenna relays the challenge to the NFC tag; the NFC tag sends a response corresponding to the challenge to the NFC antenna; the NFC antenna forwards the response to the NFC base; the NFC base forwards the response to the ECU, the ECU being configured to control the vehicle upon receiving the response to the challenge from the smart phone.
A vehicle control system includes an electronic control unit (ECU) that communicates with a smartphone to authenticate and authorize vehicle operations. If the smartphone is inoperative or unavailable, the system switches to a backup authentication method using near-field communication (NFC). The system includes an NFC base positioned on the vehicle, which communicates with the ECU. In the backup mode, the ECU sends a challenge to the NFC base, which relays it to an NFC antenna. The antenna transmits the challenge to an NFC tag, which generates a response and sends it back through the antenna and NFC base to the ECU. Upon receiving the response, the ECU verifies the authentication and controls the vehicle accordingly. This dual-mode system ensures reliable vehicle access and operation even if the primary smartphone-based authentication fails. The NFC-based fallback provides a secure, contactless alternative for vehicle control when the smartphone is unavailable.
4. The control system according to claim 3 , characterized in that, the NFC base is positioned in a vehicle door handle, a B column or a windshield A column.
A control system for a vehicle includes an NFC (Near Field Communication) base integrated into a vehicle component such as a door handle, B column, or windshield A column. The NFC base enables wireless communication with an NFC-enabled device, such as a smartphone or key fob, to authenticate and authorize access to the vehicle. The system may also include a controller that processes signals from the NFC base and other sensors to determine the presence and identity of an authorized user. Upon detection of an authorized user, the controller can trigger actions such as unlocking the vehicle doors, starting the engine, or adjusting vehicle settings. The NFC base is strategically placed in high-touch areas of the vehicle to ensure reliable communication and user convenience. The system may also incorporate additional security measures, such as encryption or multi-factor authentication, to prevent unauthorized access. This technology aims to enhance vehicle security and user experience by replacing traditional key-based systems with a more seamless and secure wireless solution.
5. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, a low frequency (LF) radio interface is provided on the NFC tag to determine a position of the NFC tag corresponding to the vehicle.
A control system for a vehicle includes an NFC tag and a low-frequency (LF) radio interface integrated with the NFC tag. The NFC tag is used to identify and authenticate the vehicle, while the LF radio interface enables precise positioning of the NFC tag relative to the vehicle. The system determines the position of the NFC tag by analyzing signals from the LF radio interface, which helps in accurately locating the tag within the vehicle's environment. This positioning capability enhances security and functionality by ensuring the NFC tag is in the correct location before performing actions such as unlocking doors or starting the vehicle. The LF radio interface operates at a lower frequency than typical NFC communication, providing better penetration through obstacles and more reliable positioning data. The system may also include additional features such as wireless communication with a mobile device or vehicle control unit to execute commands based on the NFC tag's position and authentication status. The integration of LF radio positioning with NFC technology improves the reliability and security of vehicle access and control systems.
6. The control system according to claim 5 , characterized in that, the LF radio interface is powered by the NFC antenna.
A control system for wireless communication devices incorporates a low-frequency (LF) radio interface and a near-field communication (NFC) antenna. The system addresses the challenge of powering an LF radio interface in compact or battery-limited devices by leveraging the NFC antenna as a power source. The LF radio interface is designed to communicate with external devices or sensors, while the NFC antenna provides both communication and power supply functions. By integrating these components, the system eliminates the need for a separate power source for the LF radio interface, reducing overall device complexity and size. The NFC antenna generates power through electromagnetic induction when in proximity to an NFC reader or compatible device, which is then used to operate the LF radio interface. This configuration is particularly useful in applications where space and power efficiency are critical, such as wearable devices, smart cards, or IoT sensors. The system ensures reliable communication and power management while maintaining compatibility with existing NFC infrastructure.
7. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the ECU stores the identification information comprising at least one of an identification number or encryption information of the NFC tag, such that the step of the ECU controlling the vehicle upon receiving the response to the challenge from the smart phone is only performed if the received response matches the stored identification.
A control system for a vehicle uses near-field communication (NFC) and a challenge-response authentication process to verify a user's identity before granting access or control. The system includes an electronic control unit (ECU) that communicates with an NFC tag and a smartphone. The ECU generates a challenge and sends it to the smartphone via the NFC tag. The smartphone processes the challenge and returns a response, which the ECU evaluates to authenticate the user. To enhance security, the ECU stores identification information for the NFC tag, such as an identification number or encryption information. The ECU only authorizes vehicle control if the smartphone's response matches the stored identification. This ensures that only authorized users with the correct NFC tag and smartphone can interact with the vehicle. The system prevents unauthorized access by verifying both the NFC tag's identity and the smartphone's response to the challenge. This approach improves security in vehicle access and control systems by combining NFC-based identification with cryptographic challenge-response authentication.
8. The control system of claim 1 , characterized in that, the NFC tag integrates the identification information of the NFC tag into the response.
A control system for managing access or interactions with a device or system using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. The system addresses the need for secure and efficient identification and authentication in environments where physical access or data exchange is required. The NFC tag, when interrogated by an NFC reader, integrates its unique identification information into the response signal. This integration ensures that the tag's identity is embedded within the communication, enabling the control system to verify the authenticity of the tag and the associated device or user. The system may include an NFC reader, a processing unit, and a memory storing authentication protocols. The processing unit compares the received identification information with stored data to authorize or deny access. The NFC tag may be embedded in a physical object, such as a keycard, wearable device, or mobile phone, and the response can include additional data like access permissions or usage logs. The system enhances security by preventing unauthorized access and ensures seamless interaction between the tag and the reader. The integration of identification information into the response streamlines authentication processes, reducing latency and improving user experience.
9. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the smart phone further comprises an encrypted data storage encrypting the encryption information by AES.
A control system for managing industrial equipment includes a smartphone with a secure communication module that establishes a wireless connection to the equipment. The smartphone transmits control commands to the equipment and receives operational data in response. The system ensures secure communication by encrypting the transmitted data using an Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm. The smartphone also includes an encrypted data storage module that stores encryption information, such as keys or certificates, in an encrypted format using AES to prevent unauthorized access. This enhances security by protecting sensitive data both in transit and at rest. The system is designed to improve the reliability and security of remote equipment management, particularly in industrial environments where unauthorized access or data breaches could lead to operational disruptions or safety hazards. The encrypted storage ensures that even if the smartphone is compromised, the encryption keys or certificates remain protected, maintaining the integrity of the communication channel.
10. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the NFC tag is positioned in one of several places including: sticking onto the smart phone; integrated in the housing of the smart phone; on the battery of the smart phone; on a detachable protective shell cover.
This invention relates to a control system for a smart phone that utilizes an NFC (Near Field Communication) tag to enhance functionality. The system addresses the problem of limited or inconvenient control options for smart phone operations, particularly when the device is in use or when hands-free operation is desired. The NFC tag serves as a proximity-based trigger to activate or deactivate specific functions of the smart phone, such as toggling between different operational modes, launching applications, or adjusting settings. The NFC tag can be positioned in various locations relative to the smart phone, including being stuck onto the device, integrated into its housing, placed on the battery, or attached to a detachable protective shell cover. This flexibility allows users to customize the placement based on convenience and accessibility. When the NFC tag is detected by the smart phone, it initiates predefined actions, such as switching between silent and normal modes, enabling or disabling specific features, or executing automated workflows. The system ensures seamless interaction by leveraging the short-range communication capabilities of NFC, which minimizes accidental activations and enhances user control. The invention improves usability by providing a simple, touch-free method to manage smart phone functions without requiring direct interaction with the device's interface.
11. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the NFC tag is of brittle manufacture such that removing the NFC tag from the smart phone will break the NFC tag and render it inoperative.
This invention relates to a control system for a smartphone that incorporates a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag designed to be intentionally fragile. The NFC tag is manufactured to be brittle, meaning that any attempt to remove or tamper with it will cause the tag to break, rendering it inoperative. This feature ensures that the NFC tag cannot be reused or transferred to another device, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access or misuse. The control system likely includes a smartphone with an integrated NFC tag that is physically or electronically linked to the device's functionality. The brittle design of the NFC tag serves as a tamper-evident mechanism, as any removal attempt would destroy the tag, making it unusable. This prevents unauthorized individuals from extracting the tag for malicious purposes, such as cloning or reusing it on another device. The invention addresses the problem of NFC tag security in smartphones, where traditional tags can be easily removed and reused, posing risks such as unauthorized access or device tracking. By making the NFC tag fragile, the system ensures that the tag remains functional only when properly integrated into the intended smartphone, reducing the likelihood of tampering or misuse. This approach enhances device security while maintaining the convenience of NFC technology.
12. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, a switch is provided on the NFC tag to activate or deactivate the NFC tag.
A control system for near-field communication (NFC) tags includes a mechanism to selectively enable or disable the NFC tag's functionality. The system addresses the need for controlled activation of NFC tags in applications where unauthorized or unintended interactions must be prevented. The NFC tag is integrated with a physical switch that allows users to manually toggle its operational state. When the switch is activated, the NFC tag becomes operational and can communicate with compatible devices, such as smartphones or readers. When deactivated, the NFC tag remains inactive, preventing any data exchange or functionality. This feature enhances security and user control, particularly in environments where NFC tags are used for access control, payments, or data transfer, ensuring that the tag only operates when explicitly permitted by the user. The switch may be a physical button, slider, or other mechanical interface integrated into the NFC tag's housing. The system ensures that the NFC tag's state is clearly indicated, either through visual feedback or tactile response, to confirm activation or deactivation. This design prevents accidental or unauthorized use while maintaining simplicity and reliability.
13. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the NFC tag stores the IMEI of the smart phone so that the NFC tag is activated only when the stored IMEI matches that of the smart phone incorporating the NFC tag.
A control system for a smart phone incorporates an NFC tag that stores the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) of the smart phone. The NFC tag is configured to activate only when the stored IMEI matches the IMEI of the smart phone in which the NFC tag is embedded. This ensures that the NFC tag operates exclusively with its associated smart phone, preventing unauthorized access or use. The system enhances security by verifying the device identity before enabling NFC functionality, which can be used for authentication, payment, or other secure transactions. The NFC tag may be integrated into the smart phone during manufacturing or retrofitted later. The control system may also include additional features such as proximity detection, power management, or data encryption to further secure the NFC communication. This approach prevents misuse of the NFC tag if the smart phone is lost or stolen, as the tag will not activate with any other device. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring high security, such as mobile payments, access control, or device pairing.
14. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the ECU communicates with the smart phone by GSM, Bluetooth or W-LAN.
A control system for managing vehicle functions includes an electronic control unit (ECU) that communicates with a smartphone to enable remote monitoring and control of the vehicle. The ECU is configured to receive input signals from various vehicle sensors and actuators, process these signals, and generate control commands to adjust vehicle operations. The system allows a user to interact with the vehicle through a smartphone application, which sends commands to the ECU to perform functions such as locking/unlocking doors, adjusting climate settings, or monitoring vehicle status. The ECU and smartphone communicate via wireless protocols, including GSM, Bluetooth, or W-LAN, ensuring reliable data exchange. This wireless connectivity enables real-time remote access and control, enhancing convenience and security for the user. The system may also include additional features such as diagnostic reporting, geofencing, and emergency alerts, depending on the specific implementation. By integrating smartphone connectivity, the control system provides an intuitive and flexible interface for managing vehicle functions from a distance.
15. The control system according to claim 1 , characterized in that, the NFC tag comprises a mark of manufacture of the smart phone.
The invention relates to a control system for a smartphone, specifically addressing the need to securely and efficiently manage device authentication and access control. The system includes a near-field communication (NFC) tag integrated with the smartphone, which stores a unique mark of manufacture. This mark serves as a secure identifier for the device, enabling authentication and authorization processes. The NFC tag is configured to communicate with external systems or devices, allowing the smartphone to be identified and authenticated without requiring user interaction. The control system leverages this NFC-based authentication to enable secure access to services, applications, or other devices, enhancing both security and convenience. The mark of manufacture stored on the NFC tag is a unique identifier embedded during the device's production, ensuring traceability and preventing unauthorized duplication. This system is particularly useful in scenarios where secure device identification is required, such as in enterprise environments, secure transactions, or access control systems. The integration of the NFC tag with the smartphone's manufacturing process ensures that the authentication mechanism is inherently tied to the device, reducing the risk of tampering or spoofing. The overall solution provides a robust and scalable method for device authentication, improving security while maintaining ease of use.
16. The control system according to claim 1 , where the signal-receive unit and the signal-send unit are integrated into one device.
A control system for managing industrial processes or machinery includes a signal-receive unit and a signal-send unit that are integrated into a single device. The system monitors and regulates operational parameters such as temperature, pressure, or flow rates by receiving input signals from sensors and transmitting control signals to actuators or other components. The integrated design reduces complexity, improves reliability, and minimizes wiring and installation costs. The signal-receive unit processes incoming data from sensors, while the signal-send unit generates and transmits output commands to adjust system operations. This integration ensures synchronized communication between monitoring and control functions, enhancing efficiency and responsiveness. The system may also include additional features such as data logging, fault detection, or remote monitoring capabilities to further optimize performance. The unified device simplifies maintenance and reduces the footprint of the control system, making it suitable for compact or space-constrained environments. The invention addresses the need for streamlined, cost-effective control solutions in industrial automation, process control, and machinery management.
Unknown
September 1, 2020
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